Unlocked with Madelyn Blair

In this powerful episode of Unlocked, host Madelyn Blair sits down with Chris and Martha Thomas, founders of The Defensive Line, to discuss suicide, mental health, and how to transform pain into purpose. The Thomases share their deeply personal story of loss and how it inspired their work in suicide prevention, especially among young people and communities of color. They explore practical tools fo...

In this insightful episode of "Unlocked," host Madelyn Blair sits down with data expert and author Justin Evans to demystify the concept of data and explore its critical role in leadership and decision-making. Together, they discuss the true meaning of data, why people react so strongly to it, and how leaders can harness its power—regardless of technical expertise. Justin shares stories...

Renee Wynn, former CIO of NASA, talks about space and cyber security and how it affects us all in good and bad ways. Learn how we are the human firewall and can pay a role in beating the bad guys, and it begins with knowledge. #cybersecurity, #NASA, #space, #attention

Artificial intelligence is reshaping our world at an unprecedented pace, and nowhere is this more evident than in the news industry. Join us on the next episode of Unlocked as we explore the evolution of AI with industry expert Michael Hillman , from its origins to the powerful large language models of today. Discover how AI's remarkable capacity to process and explain information is both a tool a...

When you look at something, do you see what is right about it or what is wrong? There is a difference in both what you see and how it changes your life. It’s a matter of perspective. My guest this week is Firehawk , someone who has studiedearth-based wisdom for decades and has learned to see the world from a very different perspective – one you will want to hear about. #intelligence, #AI, #wisdom,...

In this powerful episode of Unlocked, host Madelyn Blair sits down with renowned storytellers Loren Niemi and TJ Elliott to explore how stories can move boulders—transforming organizations, communities, and even ourselves. Discover the unique ways storytelling drives change and resilience, as Loren and TJ share their decades of expertise from the worlds of business, theater, and the art of narrati...

In this insightful episode of Unlocked, host Madelyn Blair sits down with James Shulgold to explore the continuum of leadership and management, drawing on their combined decades of experience. Together, they dive deep into the practical differences and overlaps between program management and project management, and what it truly means to "lead where you are." With engaging personal stories and act...

Through personal stories and expert insights, Hortense explains how mind traps hinder our potential and shares practical exercises to overcome them. The episode also explores the power of being an authentic leader and the significance of empathy in leadership.

We all experience disruptions to our work. We all are witnesses to events that offend our sensibilities. We all have moments that call for digging deep and finding our courage. Madelyn with her co-host David Hutchens explore what it means to tell stories of such times and to gain value from doing so. #resistance, #story, #values, #leadership

How can a studentmake their years in college the most transformative ones of their life? How canthey embrace their newfound freedom to build a life of growth? One of the most important steps someone will ever take isdeciding among college, trade school, or directly into ‘life’. It marks the beginning of a career, of new opportunities, and most importantly, the first steps of freedom. What is often...

Dr. Kowalski breaks down the key differences and connections between the two concepts, using relatable examples like cooking and business models to illustrate their impact on innovation.

Shari Goodwin, founder of several companies and an experienced coach, talks about why and how leaders can distinguish between energy and power and select the right focus on them for optimal leadership success. In Grounds for Thought, Madelyn explores the cost of efficiency.

In this episode of "Unlocked," host Madelyn Blair sits down with executive leadership coach Melba Holliday to explore the concept of shared leadership, particularly through the lens of horses and their natural herd dynamics.

If you have ever wanted to produce a documentary, Kamin Samuel tells her story of creating one of courageous women. The trailer is in the show as well. In Grounds for Thought, Madelyn describes a documentary she did and how she did it.

Forgiveness, one of the most difficult decisions, offers huge benefits. Dr. Tom Garcia talks about the decision we must make to dispel unpleasant memories so we can get on with our lives.

Do you want to achieve? Here are simple practices that create leadership and community anywhere using the appreciation, story, and invitation powers. Mary Alice shares her insights on how strategic questioning can serve as powerful interventions in conversations, fostering deeper engagement and understanding.

Sifu Dan Jones, master of Tai Chi and Qui Gong, tells us how to meet the day with both calm and energy to act. When Dan talks about Tai Chi, everyone understands. He will give us a teaching demonstration so that you can bring the lesson into your own life. Bring active calm into our life now. #calm, #breath, #tai chi, #unlocked

What you can learn from drummers will astound you. Drummers by their very position in the back of the band have a unique perspective that leaks out as they discuss how they use their expertise in the music business. What is most surprising is what that perspective offers us all. Will Haywood-Smith and Ron Goad, both award-winning, professional drummers offer their thoughts and stories from the bac...

Clear strategies and illustrative stories tell you how to bring the qualities of courage and resilience to kids from 1 to 18 about Self-Control, Integrity, Curiosity, Perseverance. All are essential for the 21st century. #selfcontrol, #integrity, #curiosity, #perseverance, #courage, #resilience

How to raise a brave kid is possible, can be done by anyone, and is essential for today's world. Borba describes the seven characteristics and skills of brave kids that can be developed and offers strategy after strategy for doing so. This is part I that covers confidence, empathy, and optimism. Part II is scheduled in two weeks and will cover the remaining four characteristics and skills.

Gustavo Razzetti of Fearless Culture, talks about why leaders don't like bad news and how teams can learn to embrace messengers so that news becomes signals for action, not for blame. He offers strategies for delivering what could be interpreted as bad news. He talks about the role of forgiveness. After the conversation, Madelyn describes a powerful learning technique. #culture, #fear, #forgivenes...

Summary: Dr. Garcia shares his wisdom, emphasizing the importance of understanding deeper aspects of identity beyond superficial labels such as age and career. Through his personal stories, including a pivotal life event following the death of a close friend, he illustrates how significant experiences can lead to spiritual growth and self-discovery. If you're seeking deeper spiritual connection an...

In this compelling episode, our host explores the themes of miracles, courage, storytelling, identity, and creativity as they relate to preparing for the new year. Throughout the discussion, profound insights are shared, touching upon the importance of belief, resilience, and the influence of storytelling in connecting individuals across cultural divides. Expert guests lend their unique perspectiv...

Linda Potts offers insights and strategies about stress in our lives especially during the holidays.

Managing knowledge is important all the way from the enterprise to the individual. Dr. Barbara Fillip, an recognized knowledge explorer, lays out her secrets to managing knowledge at any level. As deep knowledge is a characteristic of highly resilient people, learn how to bring techniques into your life and work. Afterward, Grounds for Thought will explore what we have learned about personal knowl...